Mother's Day-what's dad got to do with it?

Mother's Day is considered more of a private ritual between the missus and the kids by most dads: it slips by and they barely notice it. Moms deserve better, and there are things that only a dad can do to make Mother's Day memorable for the whole family.

One of those things is to help the kids make and/or purchase a great gift for mom. Even if your kids have saved up their weekly allowances, they are going to need your help to make the right purchase. And who's going to help them "photoshop" that really special hand-made card? Good old dad!

In the United States, Mother's Day is celebrated on the second Sunday of May each year. This year it's May 11- so you better red letter that date into your planner.

Starting early

• Spin it. Make a good beginning by creating excitement and anticipation for Mother's Day two or three weeks in advance.
• Get the kids involved. An easy thing to do is to tape a long piece of paper to the wall, write Happy Mother's Day in big letters with a magic marker and then ask the kids to color it in. Even 3-4- year olds can make a pretty impressive sign this way and it gives them something to do while you read the newspaper.
• Mum's the word. Arrange for a secret party or take the initiative to reserve a restaurant for mom and the kids. More than just a break from routine, mom will appreciate that you organized it.
• If you're the forgetful type, order flowers now. It's easy to forget or run out of time, especially on a Sunday morning when florists will be closed. There is absolutely nothing wrong with getting flowers a day early if it's easier for you.
• And, if your own mom or mother-in-law will be part of the days festivities, don't forget her!

Mother's Day reminds dads that parenthood cannot be taken for granted and that life gives us an opportunity to celebrate it everyday and make it extraordinary.